"Going into Spring Training, I targeted right around this time to start ramping guys up, and getting them in there back-to-back days," manager Mike Redmond said. "We have quite a few new guys. I want guys to get a feel for playing together as soon as possible."

Spring Training was a week longer a year ago due to the World Baseball Classic, which gave players more opportunities for innings and at-bats.

"This year we don't really have that luxury," Redmond said. "I want guys to get in there, get comfortable, and get going as soon as we can."